Harden home wireless network

a simple guide to protect your home wireless network

This is a simple guide in 7 steps to protect your home wireless network from invaders.

Before all, you need access your router settings page. Alls steps will be set from there. If you do not have access, contact your ISP (provider) and ask them to make these changes.

1º Remove SSID display

Removing the SSID disables the display of your network with others that are in the same range, preventing an attacker from finding your network at first.

2 º Set AES encryption

The AES encryption algorithm is the most recommended for use on a wireless network, providing a strong layer of security.

3º Use WPA2

WPA2 is the most efficient security protocol available at the moment. WEP and WPA should be ignored, as both contain security flaws that can be exploited.

4º Set a long string password

Avoid using standard passwords or easy passwords on your network. The NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology) recommends that passwords be at least 12 alphanumeric characters.

5º Disable WPS/PIN

Disable the use of WPS or some other pin as an authentication method. WPS has flaws that can be exploited by an attacker.

6º Protect local access

Do not leave the router / modem in places that can be accessed by third parties without permission.

7º Use MAC filter

Use MAC filter to have control over devices connected to your home network. Always check to see if there are any suspicious or unknown devices in the list of connected devices.

If you got here, you should have noticed that some steps were already configured by default on your router, this is because some routers are already being configured with the best security settings, just check and adjust what was not configured in the best way.

References:

https://begin-it.com/511-wi-fi-protected-setup-wps-is-insecure-heres-why-you-should-disable-it

https://www.totalhipaa.com/password-guidelines-updated-by-nist/

https://www.netspotapp.com/wifi-encryption-and-security.html